Z File - Random Fun on the Web

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Welcome to the Z File!


This is a page of random fun and serendipitous finds from around the web:



VOip - Voice over internet protocol - Use your computer like a phone - and call for free OR very cheaply:
Skype – FREE download - http://skype.com/
AIM - America Online instant messenger - Free download http://dashboard.aim.com/aim

Visual Thesaurus: http:/visualthesaurus.com/

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Take a survey and become part of the data: Educators and Databases


Online Concept Mapping Tools

Mind Meister
Mind 42
Gliffy Flow Charts
Mindomo
bubbl.us Brainstorming

Educational Resource Links

Concept Mapping Resources
The Concept Mapping Classroom
Compendium Institute

Examples

Where do you live?
Where_are_you_from?.jpg
Where_are_you_from?.jpg


SWOT ANALYSIS

Strengths:

  1. Good option for group brainstorms.
  2. Map creator receives email notification whenever a collaborator makes a change to the map.
  3. The video tutorial, with Mindmeister, makes the learning process easy.
  4. In Mindmeister, the customizing tools are easy to maneuver.
  5. Instant collaboration and publishing to a wiki or blog can be done easily.
  6. History provides some tracking of student input.

Weaknesses:

  1. I could not successfully get on Mindmeister...to activate my account the link did not work.
  2. Fees are required for some of the tools.
  3. Notes don't seem to appear when exported to .jpeg.
  4. Students can easily change content in collaboration mode.
  5. Will not format as paragraph. Text input is limited with free version.

Opportunities:

  1. Concept maps can be used for several concepts and mind map can be used for one concept.
  2. Alternative to Inspiration or other application mind mapping tools.
  3. Students can brainstorm topics as homework assignment ahead of class lecture or lesson.

Threats:

  1. Collaborators can sabotage maps because they have complete control while editing.
  2. Use of inappropriate language.
  3. Inviting others go share your map can eliminate unwanted input if you publish it on a wiki or blog.


IDEAS FOR THE CLASSROOM

  • Assign mind mapping brainstorm for homework to provide discussion points for the next class.
  • Floor plans are available in Gliffy and this could be used for students to collaborate together on projects in addition to flowcharts.
  • Create a web for each fact learned in a lesson. Each person must create an original fact.
  • Book mind map to come up with alternative endings to the story or a prequel/sequel.
  • After introducing a new topic, students must submit a fact learned. Since each fact must be original, students are motivated to get in there quickly to post ideas.
  • Create a character empathy log based on a video that the students have watched. Define key differences between characters.
  • Create a word family map.
  • Animal characteristics map - Example: student input all animals that walk or run.